RESUMEN
This study investigated how a standard could become reality-based in a workplace where certain types of deviations are not permitted, such as a radiopharmaceutical production unit. Compliance with standards is necessary to ensure the safety of individuals who manufacture such substances as well as the security of patients receiving treatment. In this qualitative case study, an ergonomic analysis of work (also known as activity analysis) was performed, with noncompliance recorded in internal audits as a starting point: the lack of double-checking in radiopharmaceutical synthesis cassette assembly. Field observations and self-confrontation interviews with workers from a production unit were conducted to analyze the activities. Although a double-check did not occur, the radiopharmaceutical synthesis operator apparently developed another risk control strategy, focusing his attention to the equipment assembly details, which necessitated continuous control and verification actions to ensure that there were no problems at this stage of production. A multilevel approach was used to demonstrate how the safety and quality of production processes based on standard compliance only become effective and adherent to the activity after resolving various conflicts at work, including control systems (external and internal audits), work collectives, the contradiction of the activity itself, and the discussion of singular situations arising daily. This study contributes to the discussion on workplace safety considering standardization and advances the discussion on changing perspectives regarding rule compliance.
RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Health promotion is an important strategy for companies as it helps identify risks at work and the health needs of workers. Nursing, as a profession committed to promoting decent work, plays an important role in this strategy. OBJECTIVE: This manuscript aims to discuss the experience of the Nursing Service in the construction of knowledge about work, to support actions in favor of health promotion. METHODS: This is a discussion article in the field of occupational health conducted at a Research Center in the nuclear area. RESULTS: Based on actions centered on guidelines on lifestyles and scheduling visits to the workplace, with the Internal Public Health Commission, limitations were identified that allowed us to discuss and understand the role of nurses as occupational health professionals. CONCLUSION: Knowing the work and understanding it in its specificities and limitations of the production process has allowed to expand the possibilities of action with workers to transform working conditions and promote health.